2009 Kia Optima vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Kia Optima. (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Optima.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Kia Optima. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (500 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Kia Optima. (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Kia Optima.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Kia | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Optima | ML |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 93 L |
